When the funding landscape feels chaotic, it’s easy to spiral into overwhelm or freeze in place. But one of the most powerful things you can do right now is come back to the work that grounds you.

In this episode, I’m sharing a moment from inside K to R Essentials that reminded all of us—myself included—how much clarity and confidence can come from reconnecting with our research. Whether it’s grant writing, making progress on a peer-reviewed paper, or simply thinking deeply about your next project, now is the time to lean into the parts of your work that bring meaning, focus, and momentum.

In this episode:

• Why anxiety often leads to disconnection from your strengths—and what to do about it

• The value of returning to work that reminds you of your curiosity, competence, and expertise

• How grant writing can help you focus—not just secure funding

• How to re-engage with the parts of your work that are still fully in your control
  
  

You don’t have to wait for things to calm down to return to what matters. Even in the midst of uncertainty, you can carve out space to reconnect with the work that reminds you who you are—and why you’re here.